Carers NSW is urging aged care providers to look out for informal and family carers in the lead up to National Carers Week later this month.

The advocacy group says carers have poorer health and wellbeing than other community members.

A survey conducted by Deakin University and Australian Unity in 2007 also found that carers are more likely to have depression.

The CEO of Carers NSW said there is much that aged care groups can do to support carers.

“They need to make sure that they are aware that there are carers involved,” she said.

“Whether we are talking about people in residential care or in temporary respite care, there are carers who are still coming in to visit those residents, to bring them food or provide them with comfort.

“If the older person has dementia, then the carers need to be involved and informed and the care workers need to engage and recognise their role, along with that of the aged care resident.”

Ms Katrakis also said there are many ways that friends and family can support carers.

“Sometimes it might be just offering to do something for them or taking some time out to sit down and have a cup of tea with them,” she said.

“That may sound simplistic but that connection is so important because it limits social isolation. Connecting with other people can make a big difference for carers.

“They often don’t get a proper break, even if they are getting a bit of respite, they may use it to do the grocery shopping or something they have to do. It doesn’t really allow you to kick your feet up and have fun.”

National Carers Week runs from Sunday 17 to Saturday 23 October. Click here for more information.